simpler congress definitions part 3

Simple Resolution

Simple Resolution

This type of resolution is used by just one chamber of Congress (either the House or the Senate) to express an opinion, make a rule, or handle an internal matter. It only affects that chamber and does not require the President’s signature or have the force of law. For example, the Senate might pass a simple resolution to create a rule for how debates are run within the Senate.

Concurrent Resolution

This involves both chambers, the House and the Senate, and is often used to make statements on shared opinions or set guidelines for both chambers, like setting the date for Congress to adjourn. It also doesn’t require the President's signature and doesn’t have the power of law.

Joint Resolution

This one is similar to a bill and can become law. It must be approved by both the House and Senate and then signed by the President. Joint resolutions are used for serious matters, like amending the Constitution (which doesn't need the President’s signature) or addressing temporary issues.

Discharge Petition

In the House of Representatives, this is a way to force a bill out of committee and bring it to the floor for a vote. If a majority of House members sign a discharge petition, it "discharges" the committee’s hold on the bill, allowing it to move forward for discussion and voting.

Restrictive Rule

This is a rule set by the House Rules Committee that limits the types of amendments (changes) members can make to a bill when it’s being debated on the floor. This means only certain amendments or changes are allowed.

Closed Rule

Also set by the House Rules Committee, this rule doesn’t allow any amendments to a bill during the debate. Representatives must vote on the bill as it is, with no changes.

Open Rule

This rule lets members of the House propose any amendments to a bill during the debate, as long as the changes are relevant. It gives more freedom for adjustments.

Quorum

This is the minimum number of members required to be present for Congress to conduct official business. In the House, the quorum is usually 218 members, while in the Senate, it’s typically 51 members. Without a quorum, votes and decisions can’t be made.

Riders

Riders are additional provisions added to a bill, often unrelated to the bill's main topic. Lawmakers sometimes add riders to bills to get something passed that might not succeed on its own. If the main bill is popular, the rider can "ride along" to approval.

Cloture Rule

This is a rule in the Senate used to end a filibuster (when a senator delays a vote by talking for a long time). To invoke cloture, at least 60 senators must agree to end the debate, forcing a final vote on the bill.

Double Tracking

This Senate process allows work to continue on other bills while one is being filibustered. The Senate temporarily sets aside the filibustered bill so they can proceed with other business, without the filibuster completely blocking all work.

Voice Vote

In this type of vote, members simply say "aye" (yes) or "no" out loud, and the presiding officer decides which side has more support. It’s a quick, informal way to vote, often used when the outcome isn’t controversial.

Division Vote

If the result of a voice vote isn’t clear, a division vote can be used. Members physically stand up or raise their hands to show their vote, so it’s easier to count each side.

Roll-Call Vote

This is a recorded vote where each member’s vote is individually called out and recorded as "yes," "no," or "present." Roll-call votes are often used for important or close votes.

Teller Vote

In a teller vote, members pass between two "tellers" (usually other members) who count their votes. This is less common and is mainly used in the House of Representatives.

Veto

When the President rejects a bill passed by Congress, it’s called a veto. The bill doesn’t become law unless Congress overrides the veto with a two-thirds majority in both the House and Senate.

Divided Government

This occurs when different political parties control different branches of government. For example, if one party controls the Presidency and the other controls Congress, it’s called a divided government.

Unified Government

This is when one political party controls both the presidency and Congress. With a unified government, it’s usually easier for that party to pass its policies, since there’s less opposition.

Earmarks

Earmarks are funds set aside in the federal budget for specific projects, often benefiting a particular area or group. Lawmakers add earmarks to bills to ensure funding for projects in their own districts.

Pork Barrel Legislation

This type of legislation funds projects that benefit a specific area or group, often to please voters or supporters in a lawmaker’s home district. It’s sometimes criticized as wasteful spending because the projects may not benefit the whole country.

Franking Privilege

This is a benefit that allows members of Congress to send mail to their constituents without paying postage. It helps them communicate with voters about government business, but they can’t use it for personal or campaign purposes.